Citation and style manuals

From the beginning, AP reporters have written their dispatches for readers from diverse social, economic and educational backgrounds and a wide range of political views. The AP therefore strives to keep its writing style easy to read, concise and free of bias. The Associated Press Stylebook, first published in 1977, clarified the news organization's rules on grammar, spelling, punctuation and usage. Now in its sixth edition, the Stylebook is the standard style guide for most U.S. newspapers, magazines and public relations firms.